Local teen creates card to benefit Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

Cards recently went on sale and are available through Dec. 31. Her artwork was among eight pieces selected for inclusion in the program, which will raise money for the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children’s.

Couch loves to perform in theater and drama club and also to read and write. She is excited to be a Holiday Card artist as the doctors at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta cared for one of her friends when she was younger.

Popular Georgia artist Steve Penley has also joined the effort, along with Couch and seven metro-Atlanta area youth.

Each of the children’s artwork comprises one of eight Christmas, Hanukah or winter-themed greetings cards. Since the card campaign debuted more than 20 years ago, purchases have raised more than $1.2 million.

Penley has donated original artwork featuring ice skaters in a picturesque winter scene. A native of Athens and Macon, Penley’s unique style of bold color, strong brushy strokes and vivid imagery have made him one of America’s most popular artists.

In addition to Newnan, the young artists hail from Alpharetta, Duluth, Lawrenceville, Marietta, and Snellville.

Card proceeds will help fund the family support team at the Aflac Cancer Center.

This team of highly trained specialists work together to provide each patient with the developmental, psychological, educational and emotional support they need throughout their journey with cancer or blood disorders. Because family is a crucial element of recovery, family support team members also assist the child’s family, ensuring that parents and siblings have access to the support they need.

The family support team includes child life specialists, social workers, school teachers, chaplains, music therapists and psychologists. Because the services of the family support team are not reimbursed by insurance, the Aflac Cancer Center relies on charitable contributions to provide these crucial services to patients and their families.

Each $12 card pack includes 20 cards and 21 envelopes, unless otherwise noted. Matching address labels are available for an additional $5 donation.

Customizable e-cards featuring Holiday Card Program artwork are also available for a minimum donation of $5. To read about the artists, request a catalog or to place an order, visit www.choa.org/cards or call 404-785-7380.

The cards will be available through Dec. 31 and can be found at select retail locations and the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta gift shops.